Offroad Portal - don't leave home without it!

[dustdriver]

I searched for but didn't find this topic, so here it goes...

Anyone who drives off-road needs to know about this, it's a potential game-changer in the way that people get stuck and get help off-road.

It's a very interesting idea. I can't count the number of times I could have used this, either for myself, or to help someone else.

Offroad Portal is a free service that helps connect off-roaders in need of assistance with volunteers in their area (based on zip code).



Check it out. Put the number in your phone. Bookmark it. Share with your friends. And if you are inclined, consider signing up to be a volunteer!

Anyone else signed up yet?

PS: Also check out this article about the service from 2020. Since then it's expanded to all 50 states:
Offroad Portal article

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[jlandry287]

Cool service, thanks for sharing.

I signed up to be a volunteer

 

[Shibadog]

Um, not to burst anyone s bubble, but since this is web based there are a bunch of places where it won’t work, more than likely the places you’re most likely to need it. Neat idea and should be fine in a lot of places, but I’d not put my confidence into having it when/where I’d need it. Best advice to carry your own self rescue gear with you. One of the Sat systems like “Spot” would be handy as well if you’re nervous.

 

[dustdriver]

Um, not to burst anyone s bubble, but since this is web based there are a bunch of places where it won’t work, more than likely the places you’re most likely to need it. Neat idea and should be fine in a lot of places, but I’d not put my confidence into having it when/where I’d need it. Best advice to carry your own self rescue gear with you. One of the Sat systems like “Spot” would be handy as well if you’re nervous.

Only the administrative end is web based.

All you need to do is call or text the number to get things rolling. You could also use a Spot or other satellite device to do that.

From the website:

Save this number:
503-877-5263
You can send us a TEXT MESSAGE, or if you are out of cellphone range, you can use a Garmin Communicator or Ham Digital Radio to send us a message. Please include your GPS location, radio type (HAM/FRS), radio frequency (for HAM) or Channel and Sub-channel (for FRS), and a description of the situation.


Yes, definitely still prepare, carry recovery gear, etc. But put the number in your phone, in case you need help one day.

Cheers!

 

[Shibadog]

I definitely think it’s a good idea. Thing is today Way too many folks (esp those new to off-road) think a cell phone will always save them. That is often NOT the case if you’re in the toolies. I always carried a SPOT (satellite based) unit when I was trailing on my motorcycles.

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